Making travel plans to Kyrgyzstan? Look at our carefully selected list of top Kyrgyzstan attractions below on the best thing to do in Kyrgyzstan and places to go in Kyrgyzstan. Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3.0 travel startup with ambitious goals to change the world.
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Ala Archa Gorge
Recharge your batteries in this gorgeous Kyrgyzstan nature wonder!
It’s roughly an hour’s drive away south of Bishkek to reach this magnificent, rugged, yet accessible gorge.
In the Kyrgyz language, “Ala Archa” means bright juniper, symbolizing the many different kinds of juniper trees that grow all around the canyon. Kyrgyz people have long used juniper to ward off evil spirits and keep their dwellings safe.
Juniper trees provide a picturesque setting for a wide variety of outdoor adventure sports that tourists may enjoy in Ala Archa throughout the entire year, such as skiing, hiking, and trekking. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful natural sites in Kyrgyzstan.
You can also see and explore the Alamedin River as it winds its way through the gorge; the river is so stunning to look at, but it is also quite dangerous.
Visit and witness the beauty of Ala Archa with your own eyes!
Address: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Ala-Kul
When you hike on this magical spot, you might think you are in Switzerland rather than Kyrgyzstan.
Incredible blue hues fill the glacier lake ringed by towering peaks. Located on the slopes above Karakol, this gorgeous alpine lake is a must-see for every traveler in Kyrgyzstan. One might even say that lake Ala-Kul has a “personality” because of its breathtaking beauty.
The beautiful waters of Ala-Kul are well-known for changing color in response to the weather on a regular basis. During clear days, the lake is a vibrant turquoise; during storms, it turns a rich cobalt blue.
Thus, Ala-Kul, which translates as “Lake of Many Colors” in Kyrgyz, is derived from this lake’s unique polychromatic phenomenon.
You must try spending a night camping on the lake’s shore to have a unique and unforgettable experience!
It is indeed one of the most beautiful tourist attractions that Kyrgyzstan offers.
Address: Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Altyn Arashan
“Paradise” is such an understatement to describe this stunning attraction in Kyrgyzstan.
In Sanskrit, the word “Arashan” refers to a healing hot spring, and the word “Altyn” signifies gold or golden, so it is always referred to as the golden healing hot spring.
When visiting Altyn Arashan, you can expect excellent accommodations, stunning mountain views, and the opportunity to relax in the area’s hot springs.
The water temperature in these springs is just right for a post-hike soak, and you won’t regret enjoying the afternoon in them.
The best way to experience Altyn Arashan is to lodge in a wooden cabin. They are warm, cozy, and a major part of the trip’s overall experience.
Many people come here to go hiking or horseback riding so that they may explore the greater valley. Those who want a better view of Palatka Peak, which has a strange tent-like shape, may choose to hike the entire way up the valley.
Strolling through Altyn Arashan in any way is like walking in heaven.
Address: Altynarasan, Kyrgyzstan
Arslanbob Village
Have you ever been to a walnut forest? If not, this fairytale forest of walnut in Kyrgyzstan should be your first.
Arslanbob is 1,600 meters above sea level and on the south-facing hillsides of the Ferghana range. It has beautiful mountain views, friendly people, and the best walnuts in the country.
If you’re looking for somewhere to cool off when it’s too hot to walk the alleys of the Ferghana Valley, look no further than this magnificent woodland.
Walking is the most incredible way to explore Arslanbob. Walk around the village at sunset as the cows return home, accompanied by the family’s youngest child.
Wander through the lovely shade of the walnut forest and collect some fruit hanging from the low branches to bring with you on your picnic to the waterfall.
The peaks are calling for those looking for a more action-packed trip. Snow-capped hills rise over emerald-green lakes just beyond the village’s hill pastures.
Have your unique walnutty experience in this Kyrgyz village!
Address: Arslanbob, Kyrgyzstan
Barskoon Gorge
Kyrgyz spot filled with little fun surprises!
The snowy peaks of the surrounding mountains may be seen from the gorge, the highest and most magnificent of which are the Peak of the World Peace Council’s land and the Peak of Panfilov Heroes.
You’ll be met with a monument of Yuri Garigan, the most legendary Cosmonaut of all time, as soon as you arrive in the area. After his momentous first manned space journey, Yuri Gagarin had a vacation on the southern edge of Issyk Kul.
Next, you will be seeing a tree that looks like it’s suffering from a cold because of all the knitted clothing covering it. Those bundled-up trees are known as “wishing trees” and are rather popular in Kyrgyzstan.
But the cascading waterfalls of Barskoon Gorge are one of its most well-known highlights, and they are the reason why tourists in Kyrgyzstan visit this spot.
You can’t miss exploring this picturesque spot while you are in Kyrgyzstan!
Address: Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Bishkek
Witness the flourishing Kyrgyz capital city below the beautiful mountains.
Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is a beautiful city surrounded by snow-capped mountains and a plethora of green spaces.
Even though it is the capital of one of the poorest countries in Central Asia, it is a modern, busy, and always changing city with a long history that goes back to the sixth century.
It is also known as the greenest city in Central Asia, with tree-lined avenues and many parks that are home to a diverse array of fauna and flora.
You will find yourself lured to the street markets and parks, as well as the remnants of the Soviet empire that you can find everywhere.
Enjoy manty (fist-sized dumplings stuffed with minced meat and onions) or lagman (a spicy cabbage, onion, and tomato stew served with homemade noodles) while you’re in town.
You can’t miss a visit to this city while in Kyrgyzstan, especially if you love the nightlife!
Address: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Burana Tower
This is one of the few historical attractions that exist in Kyrgyzstan you must see.
You’ll see it on your trip from or to Bishkek, a lone tower in the Chuy Valley’s rich meadows. From the capital, it takes an hour, and from the town of Tokmok, it takes only 15 minutes.
The Burana Tower is widely regarded as Central Asia’s first architectural wonder, and it still stands still today.
It was constructed in the eleventh century and served as a model for other minarets, such as those that can be found in Bukhara.
You can actually climb the 24.6 metered tower, with a torch or flashlight because the tower is dark inside. As you reach the top, you will be rewarded with the stunning vistas surrounding the architectural complex.
Aside from the ancient tower, climbing the surrounding hill for a bird’s eye view is worthwhile. Stone carvings called balbal can be found nearby the hills.
Spend an hour or two exploring this historic spot in Kyrgyzstan!
Address: Tokmok, Kyrgyzstan
Chong-Kemin
Fill your day with excitement in this Kyrgyz spot filled with exciting outdoor activities and mountain retreats!
There are seven lakes in the basin of its eponymous river, which flows through the Iliysky Ala-Too and Kungei-Ala-Too mountain ranges.
Extreme sports enthusiasts flock to Kyrgystan’s Chon-Kemin valley, one of the country’s most picturesque destinations.
Chon-Kemin National Park, a rich natural area, teeming with a variety of flora and animals, is another option for you that is worth exploring.
Many people believe that the Chon-Kemin valley has been preserved in its natural state, and as a result, it is a favorite destination for visitors who are passionate about natural beauty.
Hiking, fishing, and even horseback riding are just some of the enjoyable outdoor activities that you can experience here.
Horseback riding is indeed a favorite pastime for both locals and tourists in the Chon-Kemin valley because of its spectacular scenery.
Your experience here in this amazing Kyrgystan attraction would be one for the books!
Address: Kemin District, Chui Region, Kyrgyzstan
Issyk Kul
Where could you find beaches with red sand, crystal clear water, and mountains covered with snow all in one location?
If you asked a friend who’s been to Kyrgyzstan for the best spot to visit, this lake would be one of the first places to pop into their mind.
Issyk Kul means “warm lake” and is regarded as the 2nd largest lake on earth. It is among the most unusual places on the planet, being tremendously huge, unbelievably deep, and entirely out of this world.
In the summer, the water temperature is between 25 and 28 degrees Celsius, warmer than the air. You can swim in the crystal clear water surrounded by the snowcapped mountains of the Tien Shan Mountains.
The best section of Issyk Kul to explore is the south shore. The south coast is significantly wilder than the north shore, which is primarily populated by lake resorts and traveling Russians.
You must make every effort to fit this attraction into your Kyrgyzstan itinerary!
Address: Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Jeti Oguz
This landscape attraction in Kyrgyzstan is similar to the ones you can find in the landscapes of Western America.
Blood-red rocks near the foot of the Ala-Too Mountains are known as Jeti Oguz in Kyrgyz, which translates to “seven bulls.”
Protected as a Natural Monument, the Jeti-Oguz Rocks get their name from their resemblance to seven bulls.
You can find another rock formation that resembles a broken heart on your way to Jeti Oguz. According to legend, this is the heart of a lovely woman who died with a broken heart when her two suitors fought over her.
These magnificent rock formations have been trademarks of the Issyk-Kul area and popular photographic and artistic subjects.
During your visit, try to climb the slopes beside the road to get amazing views of Jeti Oguz.
Address: Jeti-Ögüz District, Issyk-Kul Region, Kyrgyzstan
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Jyrgalan
Tourists are just beginning to discover this lovely valley in far eastern Kyrgyzstan.
Jyrgalan Valley, which is located in the center of the Tian Shan Mountains, serves as an excellent location for a variety of outdoor activities, such as freeride skiing, mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
Even though it’s off the beaten route, Kyrgyzstan’s newest adventure travel hotspot, Jyrgalan, is a world away from the usual tourist traps.
You may expect to be greeted by lush, beautiful mountains bathed in the summer sunshine and pleasant mountain breezes when you visit the Jyrgalan Valley.
Winter transforms the valley into a stunning freeride skiing paradise, complete with snow-capped peaks and deep fluffy snow.
No matter when of the year you choose to make your reservation, locals will extend an invitation to experience the warm hospitality of Kyrgyzstan as well as the cultural traditions that have been passed down from many generations.
If you want to be among the first to visit this Kyrgyz destination, be sure to plan your trip now!
Address: Issyk-kul, Kyrgyzstan
Karakol
If you are into learning about cultures, this is a Kyrgyzstan must-visit place.
Karakol is the administrative center of the Issy-Kul province and serves as a convenient starting point for sightseeing around the lake. Due to its perfect setting at the base of the mountains and a good range of services, Karakol is also an excellent place to begin hiking.
As an alternative to hiking, the town boasts numerous cultural attractions that can keep tourists occupied for a few days between their expeditions.
You can’t leave Karakol without trying the local delicacy, Lagman, a type of fried noodle that was first developed in the Chinese city of Kashgar.
There is no shortage of places to eat, things to do, or adventures to enjoy in Karakol.
Though the mountains may have first drawn you to Karakol, you’ll depart with your unique collection of stories and experiences after discovering everything the area offers.
Plan your day in this beautiful tourist attraction of Kyrgyzstan!
Address: Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
Konorcheck Canyons
One of the great reasons why travelers visit Kyrgyzstan.
In every sense, the legendary Fairytale Canyon is unmatched in comparison to the Konorcheck Canyons, also known as Red Bridge Canyon, which is far larger, more rugged, and more challenging. These canyons are recommended for the most experienced desert raiders.
In order to get the most out of Konorcheck, you’ll have to go on a hike that’s not too difficult. The regular trail is around 6 miles long and provides views of a beautiful landscape throughout.
You can choose to extend your trip by taking any one of a number of side paths, and you can even set up camp in one of the canyons if you are an adventurous backpacker.
If you are traveling to Issy-Kul from Bishkek, spend a quick stop in these gorgeous canyons.
If you want to go out of Bishkek for the day but don’t want to go somewhere too out in the middle of nowhere, this is the perfect destination for you.
Address: Boom Gorge, Kyrgyzstan
Mountains of Heaven
Only these mountains have the permission to take your breath away.
The Tien Shan, also known as the Celestial Mountains, is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking mountain ranges found anywhere in the world.
The Tien Shan range, whose name comes from the Chinese tian shan, which means “mountains of heaven,” is a long chain of mountain ranges that separates China from Central Asia.
The elevation of this range, formed by the flow of glaciers melting, and the sight of their tops streaked by brilliant sunlight aren’t the only things that make your experience unforgettable. Instead, it’s the chilling realization that you’re in the world’s most landlocked country, surrounded by Kyrgyzstan’s “celestial mountains.”
Humans & horses have been companions in this country for over two millennia, and accessing the remote area nearly always necessitates the use of a horse companion.
You’ll soon feel like a nomad after staying a few nights in the Tien Shan with nomads and untamed rivers, pine forests, and miles from civilization.
Address: Kyrgyzstan
Naryn Province
If you are up for a long drive, explore this destination in the far south of Kyrgyzstan.
Nearly 40,000 people live in the foothills of Naryn-Too, where you can find museums, institutes, and administrative buildings.
The city of Naryn is renowned for its breathtaking scenery since it is traversed by the Naryn River, which is the longest river in the country and is encircled by magnificent mountains.
Naryn is a major trade hub and a free economic zone, located just over a hundred miles from the Chinese border.
You must discover the Tash Rabat, an old ruined bastion deep in the mountains, during your visit. Although it is out of the way, it is nonetheless one of Kyrgyzstan’s most spectacular archeological sites.
Visit Kakshaal-Too, one of Kyrgyzstan’s least-explored mountain ranges. It is a mountain range that is rocky, sheer, and extremely wild.
It might not be a popular Kyrgyzstan tourist destination, but there is so much to discover.
Address: Naryn Province, Kyrgyzstan
Sary Chelek
If you ask a local for their favorite place to visit in Kyrgyzstan, the unanimous answer will be this spot.
Sary Chelek is a lake in northwestern Kyrgyzstan that is situated in a very remote area. The Sary Chelek Nature Reserve, which includes this alpine lake, was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1978.
Sary Chelek Lake is the largest of the seven alpine lakes you can find in the nature reserve. The color of Sary Chelek is a stunning shade of blue. The Chatkal Mountains and extensive swaths of fruit-bearing trees surround the lake itself.
You can see nearly all of the park’s lakes in a single day through a hiking trail. The other six lakes you must see in the area are smaller but still very stunningly beautiful.
There are already stunning vistas along the single road that connects to the nature reserve. Each and every second of your journey in this incredible spot in Kyrgyzstan will be worth it!
Address: Jalal-Abad Region, Kyrgyzstan
Sary Jaz
Be one of the first to explore this beautiful destination in Kyrgyzstan!
Sary Jaz, which is located towards the southeast of Karakol on the border between China and Kazakhstan, provides more than simply the typical Kyrgyz adventures.
Tourists are drawn in by the intriguing history and diversified beauty of this half-abandoned Soviet settlement nestled in the 6000+ meter snow-covered Tien-Shan mountains.
This region is home to several fascinating caves that are hardly ever explored by outsiders because of its vicinity to the Kazakh border.
It is the perfect destination for courageous tourists who are looking to explore off-the-beaten-path spots, the kinds of places where there won’t be too many other tourists around.
The Sary-Jaz Valley is home to the pristine wilderness that provides a range of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking and exploration.
If you are up for an interesting adventure, plan your day and spend a night here to explore this hidden Kyrgyz destination!
Address: Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
Skazka Canyon
Have the ultimate backpacking adventure in this enchanting canyon of Kyrgyzstan.
There is a hidden canyon in eastern Kyrgyzstan on the southern borders of Issyk-Kul Lake filled with unusual and colorful rock formations. In this location, the geology is vibrant, and you may find practically every color under the sun.
Some people call it Fairy Tale Canyon, while others call it Fairy Tale Castle. Either way, this place is the subject of many Kyrgyz folk tales.
In Russian, the word “Skazka” translates to “Fairy Tale.” Aside from having the appearance of a place from a fairy tale, it is rumored to have been created by the fossilized remains of a long-dead dragon.
The so-called “Great Wall of China” is one of the prominent features that you can find in this canyon. This massive, nearly vertical ridge spans the majority of the canyon’s length.
Visit this spot and feel like a fairy-tale character as you explore this interesting spot in Kyrgyzstan!
Address: Kyrgyzstan
Song Kul
Your visit to this spot will make you think you are either in Iceland or Alaska.
Song Kul is home to vast grasslands and a slew of 4,000-meter peaks towering above the. Situated at an elevation of 3016 meters, it is widely regarded as one of Kyrgyzstan’s most largest high alpine lakes.
The valley lacks trees but is rich in grass, which provides excellent food for the animals living there.
Song Kul appears to be more Arctic rather than Central Asian at times due to the abundance of these surrounding snowy mountain summits.
Song Kul is a favorite summer destination for Kyrgyz families, who come here to host travelers or to let their horses graze. To accommodate visitors, most locals have tiny yurt camps. You will be pampered with delicious food if you lodge at one of these.
Try to spend overnight here and live with Kyrgyz locals. You’ll go home with an incredible Kyrgyzstan travel experience!
Address: Naryn Region, Kyrgyzstan
The Pamir-Alai Mountains
Are you a serious hiker that is wishing to have a great hiking experience while traveling in Kyrgyzstan?
The Pamir-Alai Mountains are the most remote mountain range in Kyrgyzstan, but they offer some of the most rewarding hiking opportunities in the country.
The Pamir-Alai Range, which is located in southwest of Kyrgyzstan, is home to some of the most breathtaking views in the entire country.
Because they are isolated from areas frequented by large numbers of tourists, these mountains have retained their natural splendor.
This off-the-beaten-path vacation combines some of the best trekking and nomadic culture experiences that Kyrgyzstan has to offer with some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.
The Pamir-Alai region might be a paradise for hikers who are eager to travel the extra miles and journey somewhere further.
Pack your backpacks and wear your best hiking shoes as you explore this beautiful hiker’s paradise!
You haven’t made up your mind to go to Kyrgyzstan yet, have you? Visit why visit Kyrgyzstan at least once in your lifetime here.
Address: Southwest Kyrgyzstan
